Then Peter came to him and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times? “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “But seventy times seven!”
Matthew 18: 21-22
Forgiveness is a topic that cannot possibly be put into a small little devotional for a week. Sermons, books, series, classes, can all be done around forgiveness and it can still take years for people to truly heal, and to truly forgive. This is why I love how Jesus replies to Peter about how many times we should forgive someone who has hurt us… “seven times?” Peter asked. “No, not seven…but seventy times seven!” Phew! Glad Jesus makes it clear forgiveness can take a while. I’ve always heard that when you hold on to unforgiveness or a grudge it’s like holding on to hot coal wishing that the other person would get burn. And if you truly take the time to reflect on who you may need to forgive, maybe you would see that for yourself. I know I have. Forgiveness is more than a feeling, it’s a choice. And not an easy one, but it takes time. So have compassion for yourself and continue to forgive seventy times seven times! Let go of that hot coal. Even if it’s just taking your pinky off. Loosen the grip. Start somewhere. We all have to. Yes it’s hard, but you’re not alone. God hears you, sees you, and understands. Ask God to help you. Praying for my own help with unforgiveness and for yours too. Have a blessed week.
Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life 